Chapter 10 - ASHES AND EMPIRES
Three days later, Julian returned to the estate. The media reported a "massive gangland restructuring," but the Commission knew the truth. Julian Rinaldi had eliminated his greatest rival in a single night of precise, calculated violence, solidifying his absolute control over the city.
He walked into Claire’s bedroom. She was sitting up in bed, reading a story to Rosie and the triplets, who were all piled onto the mattress around her.
When Julian entered, the boys jumped up. “Dad!”
Julian hugged his sons fiercely, kissing the tops of their heads. He looked at Rosie, giving her a gentle, reassuring smile, before his gaze settled entirely on Claire.
“Boys, take Rosie to the kitchen. Have the chef make ice cream sundaes,” Julian ordered softly.
The children scrambled out of the room, leaving Julian and Claire alone.
Julian walked to the edge of the bed. He looked exhausted, covered in the invisible ash of a violent life, but his eyes were clear. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, black velvet box.
Claire’s breath caught in her throat.
“I told you I would burn the city down to keep you safe,” Julian said, his voice raw with emotion. “It’s done. The threats are gone. I own the board now. No one will ever touch you, or Rosie, or our sons ever again.”
He opened the box, revealing a massive, flawless diamond ring.
“I paid twenty-two nannies to try and survive my children,” Julian whispered, dropping to one knee beside the bed. “And then a broke, stubborn, beautiful woman walked into my kitchen, caught a flying pancake, and entirely conquered my soul. I don’t want you as my employee, Claire. I want you as my queen. Marry me.”
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Tears spilled down Claire’s cheeks. She reached out with her good arm, pulling his face toward hers.
“You’re going to be a terrible boss to quit,” she laughed through her tears. “Yes, Julian. Yes.”
